UB Statistics Department to boost research efforts
The University of Botswana Department of Statistics in partnership with other SADC Universities on March 18, 2018 organised a two-day pre-conference workshop aimed at recruiting and supporting potential PhD students to undertake Statistical Science research.
The workshop was an integral part of the 5th African International Conference on Statistics intended to support post-graduate doctoral students who had little or no previous experience on theoretical and empirical statistical research but who were already working towards formulating research topics. The workshop was also expected to strengthen both theoretical and practical skills of participants in Statistical Science research.
The workshop entailed a series of lectures coordinated by UB Statistics Lecturer, Professor Dahud Kehinde Shangodoyin; extensive hands-on practical group discussions and experience sharing by participants; as well as pre and post workshop evaluation conducted by participants and trainers. It attracted students from various universities from South Africa such as University of Limpopo, University of Zulu-Land and North West University.
Officiating at the conference, UB School of Graduates Studies Dean, Professor George Anderson, said the Statistical Science research programme would enable students to take responsibility for their own learning even beyond the classroom experience to acquire skills and knowledge consistent with their interest and aptitudes. He urged students to make use of information resources such as libraries, internet and others to research instead of relying solely on lecturers.
“You will acquire a number of attributes that would help you compete favourably in the world of work, engage and interact more productively with others,” said Professor Anderson.
Welcoming guests, UB Head of the Department of Statistics, Dr Lucky Mokgatlhe, said the workshop would provide opportunity for students to sharpen their skills in the formulation of their PhD research. Dr Mokgatlhe also expressed gratitude for the workshop and its contribution towards UB’s vision of a leading centre of academic excellence in the world.
University of Limpopo Statistics and Operations Research Officer, Ms Maseka Lesaoana appreciated UB Management for affording them the opportunity to collaborate with their universities. She said that would strengthen the relationship between students and staff members of collaborating Universities as well as internationally.